Museums

The Old Mission (Mission of the Sacred Heart) is the oldest standing building in Idaho built 1850-1853. A living landmark, Old Mission stands serenely on a hilltop 24 miles east of Coeur d’Alene along I-90. The Mission has been many different things for many different people and will always have a place in history. Now the church remains as a monument to the past, one of the most remarkable buildings in Idaho.

Sacred Encounters

The permanent exhibition of Sacred Encounters: Father DeSmet and the Indians of the Rocky Mountain West is located at the Visitor Center which tells the story of the “Blackrobes” and Coeur d’Alene Tribe. This Smithsonian quality display unfolds in nine dramatic scenes, augmented by video and music. The centerpiece of the exhibition is a dream-like re-creation of the first Sacred Heart Mission built in 1842.Coeur d’Alene’s Old Mission State Park’s natural beauty and historic significance combine to make the site a perfect setting for weddings, celebrations and special events that connect the present generation with the past. These include the Historic Skills Fair held the second weekend of July where historic skills and crafts are demonstrated along with music; and the annual Feast of the Assumption Pilgrimage of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe held every August 15th with an outdoor Mass and celebration.

Ajats Dress

Many items including items made by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and on loan from the Smithsonian are on display at the Old Mission in Cataldo.